Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate
Sodium lauroyl glycinate is reviewed as a mild, well-tolerated surfactant in personal care products and is considered safe at use concentrations. It is not approved as a direct food additive; appearance on a food label likely reflects mislabeling or a personal-care item.
What it is
An anionic surfactant formed by combining the amino acid glycine with lauric acid (a coconut/palm-derived fatty acid) and neutralizing with sodium.
Mild cleansing/surfactant primarily used in personal care products (shampoos, facial cleansers); not a typical food ingredient.
Why it's flagged
- not a food additive
- potential mild skin/eye irritation at high concentrations
What regulators actually say
"The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded that these N-acyl amino acids and their salts are safe in the present practices of use and concentration."
"Cosmetic products and ingredients, with the exception of color additives, do not require FDA premarket approval."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Not listed as a food additive; used in cosmetics under FDA cosmetic regulations.
European Union — EFSA
No EFSA food additive evaluation; permitted in cosmetics under EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009.
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